President William Ruto has honoured nurse Jacobeth Jeptoo for her courage and selflessness in responding to the helicopter crash that killed Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five others in Nandi County in February.
Jeptoo was among Kenyans recognised during the investiture of the 2026 national heroes at State Lodge in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on Tuesday, following the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
She received recognition for her efforts to help the victims of the February 28 crash, when the helicopter carrying Ng’eno and five others went down in Chepkiep, Mosop Constituency, and burst into flames.
The nurse drew national attention after rushing to the scene with gloves in an attempt to assist the victims under dangerous and distressing circumstances.
Her citation recognised her “extraordinary courage and selflessness in safeguarding the right to life” during the tragedy.
It added that her “brave first response and life-saving assistance under perilous circumstances” exemplified “exceptional humanity, compassion, and unwavering respect for human dignity”.
The recognition highlights the role ordinary Kenyans play when they step forward during emergencies, often at great personal risk.
Jeptoo’s actions at the crash scene drew widespread praise, with her response seen as an example of the duty to preserve life even in danger.
She had recently completed her community health nurse training at Kendu Bay Adventist School of Medical Sciences and was awaiting her qualifying examinations when the crash occurred.
Ruto presided over the ceremony, awarding medals to individuals drawn from different sectors of national life in recognition of their contributions to the country.
The President said the national honours reflected the country’s appreciation of citizens whose actions and service demonstrated patriotism, sacrifice and commitment to others.
The recognition formed part of the 2026 national honours roll recommended by the National Heroes Council, which identifies individuals whose contributions have made a difference in their communities and the country.
Among those honoured were Central Bank of Kenya Governor Kamau Thugge and Environment Principal Secretary Festus Ngeno.
During the State Lodge luncheon, Ruto also presided over the unveiling of a biography of freedom fighter Ramogi Achieng’ Oneko, one of the Kapenguria Six detained by the British colonial government in 1952 for their role in the struggle for independence.
The book documents Oneko’s life and contribution to the independence movement.
The Kapenguria Six comprised Jomo Kenyatta, Oneko, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, Kung’u Karumba and Paul Ngei.
Their detention became a defining chapter in Kenya’s struggle against colonial rule.
Ruto said the country must continue recognising the sacrifices of those who fought for independence while celebrating contemporary heroes whose actions uphold the dignity and welfare of fellow citizens.
The annual national holiday provides an opportunity to honour people whose service, sacrifice and commitment embody the values of humanity and national responsibility.
